As we were interviewing one of our clients, we asked the question, “What do you like about where you live now and what do you not like?” They explained they felt members of their family were being excluded during certain activities, specifically during meal time and playing in the yard. Our hearts broke as we listened to their story of how their kitchen and dining area had barriers that prevented them from communicating and interacting during this important part of the day. Further, they felt isolated and disconnected from family as the kids played in the backyard and they couldn’t participate or see them enjoying the outdoors. There is no doubt, the traffic pattern in this home was having an adverse impact on their family relationships.
The solution was simple, a home with a great room floor plan and a walkout door wall visible from the kitchen to the backyard. This whole scenario got us thinking, how many more families are struggling because their home is interfering with their relationships?
Photo courtesy: Wix
Certainly, we are challenged enough with the pressures of today’s society, peer pressure, entertainment, school, work, etc. that something we have control over; the structure of our home, should only contribute to family success!
Consider taking an inventory of your family interactions in the context of your home. Maybe, there is room for improvement. As you ask yourself these questions, consider how your home helps or detracts from your family interactions.
1. Where do we eat?
At the counter top bar? Kitchen table? Dining room? In front of the TV? In the bedroom? Are we interested in family interaction while food is being prepared?
2.Where is homework conducted?
Office? Family room? Kitchen table? Kitchen counter? Bedroom? Are you able to communicate as needed during study time?
3. Where do the kids play?
Basement? Family Room? Bonus room? Bedroom? Backyard? Neighbor's house? At the neighborhood park? How accessible are these spaces to your daily chores in the home?
4. Where is the home office?
Time with Mom or Dad is important. Are they accessible? Main floor designated office? Upstairs? Basement? Is there room for the kids to work in the office too?
5. Where is the workshop/craft room?
Garage? Basement? Shed or barn? Are Mom or Dad accessible?
6.Where is the entertainment room?
Music, Reading, TV? Are we isolated or interacting? Which do we want?
Finally, think about your daily routines: driving up the driveway, parking the car, entry to the home, setting things down. What is the first room you enter? Where is the bathroom? What are the first rooms your family members go to? Where will you gather and interact?
We don’t think that there is a perfect home out there, but we do believe there is one that can better meet your needs as family priorities and relations are ever evolving. Council together as a family, share your concerns, interests, and goals, then talk with your real estate agent, they can help you find a floor plan and situation that will help create “Love At Home.”
There is beauty all around
When there’s love at home;
There is joy in ev’ry sound
When there’s love at home.
Peace and plenty here abide,
Smiling sweet on ev’ry side.
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.
Text and music: John Hugh McNaughton, 1829–1891